Weekly Dharma Talk & Discussion

About us

This evening's topicis:

This evening's speaker is:

Details: Everyone is welcome on Thursday evenings to meditate together, hear a dharma talk, and engage in discussion. Talk topics change each week, but each provides a distinct insight into how we can awaken to our “basic goodness”; that is, have a sense of intrinsic dignity and completeness in dealing with our everyday lives which promotes kindness, strength, and wisdom both in ourselves and in how we relate to others in society.

Each Thursday evening begins with a silent, group meditation session from 7-7:30 in the Main Shrine Room followed by a talk/presentation and group discussion. Those who are new to meditation should plan to arrive at 7pm when a Shambhala-certified instructor provides a brief introduction to meditation practice in another room until the beginning of the talk and discussion at 7:30. After the talk, you're invited to continue the conversation in our reception area over a cup of tea and light snacks.

We provide these evenings as an offering to the community. No advance registration is necessary andthere is no fee to attend. Simply drop in whenever you feel inspired. As a non-profit, all-volunteer organization operating in the DC metropolitan area for over 40 years, we are supported by our members' monthly dues and by voluntary online or onsite donations. All donations are greatly appreciated!

First Thursdays: “Learn to Meditate” Workshop (7-8:30pm)

On the first Thursday of each month, in lieu of the schedule above, we offer a more in-depth "Learn to Meditate" workshop geared toward newcomers to meditation. The session includes Q&A and discussion, and is followed by refreshments. (There is a fee for this workshop. Please see our calendar for details and registration information.)

About the
Venue

Spark your heart and mind through the practice of meditation.Shambhala Vision is rooted in the principle that every human being has a fundamental nature of basic goodness. This nature can be developed in daily life so that it radiates out to family, friends, community and society. Located in the vibrant Cleveland Park neighborhood, the Shambhala Meditation Center of Washington DC is part of a global community of meditation centers which aspire to awaken kindness, goodness and wisdom within society, through a variety of classes, retreats, community events, and free of charge public meditation sessions.What We OfferIn addition to a deep social vision, a diverse community, and more, the Washington DC’s core offerings include:MeditationMeditation is a natural state of the human mind—at rest, open, alert. The practice of meditation has been taught for over 2,500 years as a vehicle for realizing the beauty and magic of the ordinary world without aggression or manipulation.The Way of ShambhalaThe Way of Shambhala program is a complete training in authentic meditation practices and teachings. This series of workshops, courses and weekend retreats (Shambhala Training) is an experiential overview of meditation practices, wisdom teachings, contemplative arts, and physical disciplines rooted in the ancient traditions of Shambhala and Tibetan Vajrayana Buddhism.Children and Families ProgramHolidays and community events are meant for the whole family. Some practice events might be long and quiet and difficult for young children to sit through. To help them enjoy themselves, it’s fine to bring books or other activities for children. As children mature, they can begin to join in meditation and other activities at the Center.Contemplative ArtsContemplative Arts comprise a number of secular disciplines and activities, including flower arranging and photography, that integrate art and culture with everyday life. Each of these disciplines represents a genuine contemplative path; together they bring beauty, vividness and wisdom to our lives and culture.Heart of RecoveryThis weekly meditation, discussion, and support group explores the relationship of addictions and recovery to our personal paths as warriors, bodhisattvas, and meditation practitioners. All who have been impacted (including spouses, children, and other family members) by addiction (both substance and behavioral) are welcome to join usMaitri BhavanaMaitri Bhavana is a meditation on loving kindness that is practiced for those who are seriously ill, either physically or mentally. The Sanskrit word maitri means friendliness, or loving-kindness, while bhavana means virtue or quality… Read More »

Thank you!

Why Retreat?

We asked people why they go on retreat, here's what they said:

Rest and inner calm.
Karen

Retreat Guru's Vision

We believe human beings are innately wise, strong and kind. This wisdom, although not always experienced, is always present. Going on retreat is a beautiful way to reconnect to our basic sanity and health. Our aspiration at Retreat Guru is to inspire people to experience authentic retreats and reconnect with their innate wisdom, strength and kindness.